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- Tasks: Lead national data infrastructure projects and develop talent in social science research.
- Company: Join UKRI, a leader in research and innovation with a focus on societal impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 30 days leave, and access to a Civil Service pension.
- Why this job: Shape the future of data infrastructure and skills in a dynamic, impactful role.
- Qualifications: Graduate qualified with expertise in social science data infrastructures and leadership experience.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 94931 - 110000 £ per year.
Salary: £94,931 - £110,000 (+£5,560 London allowance) per annum
Hours: Full Time or Part Time (minimum 0.8 FTE)
Contract type: Open Ended (secondments welcome)
Location: Caxton House, London (Hybrid)
Closing date: 15 February 2026
About the role
We are seeking a dynamic social science research leader with professional standing who can turn complex challenges into opportunities, shaping national data infrastructures to support government priorities such as the industrial strategy, while also driving the development and deployment of talent and skills in social and economic research.
Purpose of the role
As ESRC Executive Director for data infrastructures and skills, you will lead on shaping investments that drive impactful research to inform economic, public service, and societal decisions over the next decade. With direct responsibility for budget lines covering data, talent, and skills, you will ensure alignment with UKRI priorities while keeping pace with evolving social science needs, technological advances such as AI, and computational capabilities. The role requires building funding and collaboration partnerships with research councils, government departments, and devolved administrations, while engaging the social science community to both capture emerging insights and communicate ESRC’s agenda to senior leaders. Working within a collaborative executive team, you will help ensure that infrastructure, talent, and skills priorities are coherent, optimised, and embedded in the ESRC Data Infrastructure and Skills strategy.
Key accountabilities
- Reporting directly to the ESRC Executive Chair you will be the Senior Responsible Officer (SRO) for:
- The Administrative Data Research UK (ADR UK) programme, which has recently received approval of £168m for the next investment phase (2026 – 2031).
- The Smart Data Research UK (SDR UK) programme.
- The UK Data Service (UKDS).
- The Population Research UK (PR UK) programme.
- The Understanding Society longitudinal study.
- The UK Centre for Evidence Implementation in Adult Social Care (IMPACT).
Your skills and experience
- Graduate qualified with strong scientific record and deep expertise in social science data infrastructures.
- Proven senior leadership in social sciences, managing major initiatives and programmes.
- Extensive stakeholder management skills: negotiation, relationship‑building, conflict resolution, and influence.
- Experienced in programme management and evaluation, including risk management and outcome delivery.
- Effective leader with solid track record in staff performance and development.
Incentives UKRI can offer the successful candidate:
- Flexible Working
- 30 days annual leave + Public Holidays
- Access to Civil Service Pension Scheme
- Various everyday discounts through our dedicated provider
Visit our dedicated benefits webpage for more info: Benefits of working at UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
Executive Director - Data Infrastructure & Skills employer: ESRC
Contact Detail:
ESRC Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Director - Data Infrastructure & Skills
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We think you need these skills to ace Executive Director - Data Infrastructure & Skills
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your experience aligns with the role. We want to see how you can turn complex challenges into opportunities, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant skills!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As an Executive Director, we’re looking for someone with proven senior leadership experience. Be sure to include examples of how you've managed major initiatives and developed teams in your application. This is your chance to shine!
Highlight Stakeholder Management: We value extensive stakeholder management skills, so make sure to mention your experience in negotiation, relationship-building, and conflict resolution. Use specific examples to demonstrate your influence and effectiveness in these areas.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our careers site! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you can download the candidate pack and learn more about the role while you're there.
How to prepare for a job interview at ESRC
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of social science data infrastructures and the key programmes mentioned in the job description. Brush up on recent developments in AI and computational capabilities, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your senior leadership experience, especially in managing major initiatives. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully led teams and delivered impactful results in previous roles.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about your past experiences in stakeholder management. Be prepared to share specific instances where you've built relationships, negotiated effectively, or resolved conflicts. This will demonstrate your ability to engage with various partners.
✨Champion Diversity and Inclusion
Since the role emphasises equality, diversity, and inclusion, come prepared with ideas on how you can promote these values within the organisation. Share any relevant initiatives you've been involved in that align with this commitment.
